The American fascination with Porsches took off when importer Max Hoffman brought 15 Special Roadsters to the U.S. in 1954. The spartan construction of the Speedsters meant that the introductory price was only $2,841, and 4,144 of them were sold in the U.S. between 1954 and 1958. The accompanying Cabriolet offered creature comforts to 3,367 more practical buyers.

Erwin Komenda’s T5 body style arrived in 1960 and was designated the 356 B. Both the Convertible and Coupe were equipped with 15-inch wheels, heavier and taller bumpers, a revised slope to the hood, and a larger chrome-plated hood handle. The steering wheel and knobs were black plastic, with a “mushroom” knob for the shifter. The headlights were moved to the top of the fenders, with amber parking lights below them and brake vents below the bumper.

The Porsche 356 Roadster, Cabriolet, and Speedster debate is never-ending. While the Speedster has the dashing profile, the Roadster and Cabriolet are far more usable. For those who live outside of the Sun Belt, a real top and roll-up windows is ideal. If you want a truly weatherproof convertible, the insulated Cabriolet is the best choice and can extend your driving pleasure into the colder months.

Extremely attractive in silver with blue leather interior, this 356B 1600 Cabriolet has a black canvas top and a top boot matching the color of the interior. Carpeting is a very subtle shade of blue-grey and the car presents well overall. The brightwork is all in very good condition. The engine, restored and correctly appointed, shows some signs of recent use.

The car is fitted with a Blaupunkt tri-band AM/FM/short wave radio and a rare and desirable VDM steering wheel with optional horn ring; the car also comes with the factory jack. This Reutter cabriolet is undoubtedly one of the finest.